In 1998, the Diabetes Association of Sri Lanka established an Insulin Bank. The Insulin Bank provides support for children with diabetes in poor families. Financial and social constraints had previously prevented ideal care for most of these children, as the free health system in the country was unable to supply the best quality insulin and the support needed for monitoring, control, and regular assessment of complications.
Funds from the Bank provide the best quality insulin, regular complications assessments, and medical, nutritional and psychological support free of charge to any child with diabetes in the country. The Bank has been very successful; however it is not able to cater for all needy children. We therefore commenced assisting the Bank in 2004, and we now support 60 children.